An Taisce

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An Taisce (Irish for The Treasury), also known as the National Trust for Ireland, was established in 1948 with a similar mission to that of the National Trust in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and is the most influential environmental body in the Republic of Ireland. It is not a State organisation although it receives a modest annual State grant — less than €6,000 out of a total annual income in the region of €440,000, derived from member fees, bequests and donations.

The Planning Acts provide for An Taisce and about 20 other prescribed bodies to be informed of all planning applications in areas of scenic beauty or high amenity significance; where architectural, archaeological or environmental issues need to be considered. Local Authorities are obliged to consult An Taisce on a vast array of development proposals. Therefore its range of expertise extends across Ireland's natural, built, and social heritage. It seeks to educate, inform, and lead public opinion on the environment; to advocate and influence policy; and manage heritage properties.

1 Operations
2 Structure
- 2.1 Key Personnel
- 2.2 Staff
3 Properties
4 See also
5 External links

[edit] Operations

The organisation is split into four operational divisions:

Projects Unit operates nationwide programmes on behalf of the Irish Government's Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government , the Dublin Transportation Office and European Union such as Blue Flag water quality accreditation programme and Green Schools Programme that aims to promote higher environmental standards in schools.

The Planning Office which monitors roughly 5% of all 'planning' (local authority development consent) applications made annually making submissions on a small number of those received and appealing about 300 applications a year to An Bord Pleannala the statutory planning appeals board.

Natural Environment Office which monitors environmental standards and co-ordinates policy formation from the elected advocacy committees amongst the membership.

Property Custody takes ownership of and looks after properties that have either historical significance or are environmentally sensitive. The Poperties listed below are taken care of by both professional staff and volunteers who are involved with the day to day management of income generating properties such as Tailors Hall (also available for private hire for weddings) and the restoration of important resources such as the Boyne Canal.

[edit] Structure

The organisation comprises approximately 5,000 members who pay an annual membership fee of €35. They are organised into 15 local organisations and these report to a 50-person Ruling Council. The Council elects a board of management and other policy committees, including: